Since the popular Food Network show hit the airwaves, seven Iowa restaurants have been featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” Here’s a bit about each one.
Led by the one and only Guy Fieri, the”Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” crew has made their way across the country many times over, highlighting iconic food stops around the United States that are worth a pit stop for tasty eats. Here in the heart of the Midwest, several eateries have been featured highlighting the varied flavors that make up a certain niche of the state’s food scene.
Here’s an overview of the restaurants in Iowa that made their way onto “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” Read on to see if you’ve made it to any of the local stops from the hit show.
P.S. You’ll notice a trend that the years have not been kind to some of these small mom-and-pop shops. So you might also start a list of other restaurants around the state that deserve to be highlighted if “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” plans to wander back through the state.
1. George the Chili King
Des Moines
This iconic spot reigned in Des Moines since the 1950s. Known for its chili (of course) and tenderloin, the restaurant officially closed up shop in the last couple of years.
Today, the legendary chili recipe is being carried on by Steer ‘N Stein, a food venue located on Grand Avenue at the Iowa State Fair, so you can still sample a little of what the show highlighted even if their original location is no longer open.
2. Patton’s Restaurant & Catering
Des Moines
Another Des Moines spot visited by the “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” crew was Patton’s Restaurant in Des Moines. Unfortunately, the restaurant, known for its Southern-inspired menu, closed in 2017.
3. Smokey D’s BBQ
5055 NW 2nd St, Des Moines
(515) 243-2747
This is one spot that you can still visit just like they did on the show.
Smokey D’s BBQ got its start in 2006 as a catering truck. It has been a hit with locals and those traveling through since day one. Its award-winning barbeque was the main attraction when “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives: rolled into Des Moines in 2013. Show host Guy Fieri recommends the smoked chicken wings (with your choice of sauce) and the apple dumpling for dessert.
4. Tacopocalypse
Des Moines
Another featured restaurant on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives’ in the Des Moines area is Tacopocalypse. And unfortunately, it is another location that is permanently closed. It was known for its Asian-inspired, inventive taco and burrito flavor combinations.
5. Flying Mango
4345 Hickman Road, Des Moines
515-255-4111
Flying Mango in Des Moines made it on the show as Guy Fieri traveled around town trying some of the state’s best barbeque. Today, the kitchen is still cooking and you can pop in and try the southern barbeque that has a hint of Caribbean influence.
Their ribs are very popular but Guy sampled the smoked catfish cakes and recommended you give them a try.
6. Mi Patria
1410 22nd St., West Des Moines
(515) 222-2755
Don’t let the strip mall location fool you, this is one eatery in the Des Moines area that you don’t want to pass up. The Ecuadorian cuisine will surprise and delight you. The ceviche and empanadas should not be passed up. Mi Patria first opened in 2011, was featured on the show in 2014, and serves lunch and dinner to this day.
7. Dixie Quick’s
Council Bluffs
Dixie Quick’s was featured way back in 2009 on the show, but unfortunately is now in the group of restaurants that have permanently closed. The restaurant, founded by Rene Orduna, was famous for its Texas Chile Pepper Steak and an eclectic menu and locals were sad to see it finally close up shop.
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